Our Curriculum Drivers

Curriculum Drivers

At Blandford St Mary CE Primary School, we believe in crafting a curriculum that not only aligns with the National Curriculum but also equips children with essential life skills and enriching experiences. Alongside the teaching requirements of the National Curriculum, key drivers have been selected to meet the specific and unique needs of our children.

Our three key drivers are: Aspiration, Communication and Curiosity. They underpin our learning and are tailored to meet the needs of the community we serve and the context in which we work. They also embrace our school values of Respect, Responsibility, Love Hope and Perseverance.

Aspiration

Aspiration drives ambition and fosters a sense of purpose in achieving one's goals. We encourage the development of aspiration by instilling a sense of pride in our children  to produce work of high quality, take pride in themselves and be the very best they can be. We recognise and promote the skills, qualities and capabilities of each child and are committed to making sure every child is able to explore interest in a career path or aspiration. With perseverance and hope, problem solving and planning also need to be explicitly taught so that every child can structure their approaches to achieving their goals and overcoming the hurdles that will inevitably present themselves. Children are encouraged to recognise and appreciate that their aspirations may change as they grow, as do the aspirations of others.

Communication

Communication is paramount for expressing thoughts, opinions, ideas and information in all areas of learning and life. Our aim is to cultivate proficient communicators who can articulate their thoughts clearly and coherently. We encourage the children to become aware of the different ways in which they are able to communicate, and in which others may communicate with them, in written, spoken and digital contexts.

We prioritise developing speaking and listening skills, alongside proficiency in reading and writing, to empower our children with the tools they need to succeed. Children who cannot access verbal and written communication are taught to express themselves using pictorial and physical communication, such as British Sign Language.

Curiosity

Curiosity fuels a passion for learning and encourages our children to question, explore, and discover. We cultivate an environment where curiosity thrives, promoting inquiry-based learning and critical thinking. Our curriculum encourages children to ask probing questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and approach learning with an open mind. By fostering curiosity, we empower children to think creatively, solve problems, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. We celebrate diversity, encourage global awareness, and foster a culture of inquiry and exploration.